The former West Ham legend has entered the row that started when Payet went on strike to try to force through a move to Marseille.

"It is not a difficult one," said Ferdinand. "You owe it to the club and the fans, especially where he came from before he got to this club. West Ham gave him the platform to play at the Euros, they gave him a platform for a new contract and to become a player that is known in the football world and you have to respect that.

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Payet has asked to leave West Ham in favour of a return to Marseille

"If I was the gaffer there I would say, 'listen, until I get what I want for you money-wise, you can sit and rot'. That's the way I'd be.

"The club is bigger than any football player and if the respect has been taken out of the situation then you've got to deal with it accordingly."

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Ferdinand admitted he had problems at Man United but never opted to not play